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An independent report on the talk-in now suggests the town would benefit from a “low speed environment”.

It gives examples of towns where it is already in place such as settlements in Germany.

Among proposals is for an increase in cycling facilities through the bustling centre.

The report reads: “The goal of introducing a low speed environment would be to bring about a behavioural change along Main Street such that pedestrians could cross the road at any point with confidence.

“In some European cities, low speed environments are regulated and enforced – for example 12 mph (20kph) in historic centres in Germany is commonplace.

“This project would be controversial and difficult to implement but the result would be high impact and beneficial for the town centre.”

However, business leaders are thought to be less positive, fearing that any restrictions may divert traffic away from the town centre.

Jim Nicoll, chair of Prestwick’s Civic Pride group, has been in business with his architect’s firm for 33 years and said: “Traffic is slow going through the Main Street – I can’t remember any bad accidents.

Main Street is the main thoroughfare in Prestwick (Image: Euan McCall/Ayrshire Post)

“The aim of this project was to look at taking Prestwick from good to great and plenty of ideas were put forward.

“There’s a lot to talk about but I wouldn’t say speed has proved a big problem as yet.”

Prestwick councillor Hugh Hunter added: “I would be nervous about such a move.

“We have to be wary of the Main Street’s vitality and I’m not sure this is the way to enhance that.

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“One of the town’s great beauties is how well covered it is by traffic lights, which helps to limit speed.”

Bosses at South Ayrshire Council will be asked to consider the proposal for possible adoption into their Local Plan.

Communities chief Claire Monaghan said: “The #TalkPrestwick event was a really useful way of engaging with a wide cross-section of the community in Prestwick.

“It generated a great range of high quality ideas. The report contains short, medium, and long term suggestions, and we’ll be working with community groups on considering how these can be progressed and external funding accessed.”